Over the years, have your teeth begun to look more yellow than white? Whether it’s due to your love of coffee or is simply a part of the natural aging process, it’s important to know that there are ways to correct stubborn dental discoloration. DIY teeth whitening is not one of them. Although the convenience factor may be tempting, there are actually several dangers associated with this method that could be costly for your oral health and your wallet. To learn more, read on!
3 Dangers of DIY Teeth Whitening
As previously mentioned, DIY teeth whitening methods are tempting. After all, who doesn’t want to address stubborn dental discoloration from the comfort of their own home? Unfortunately, there are a few dangers that patients often aren’t aware of, including:
- You could use the wrong products – From over-the-counter bleaching kits to hydrogen peroxide mixes, there are several items that don’t have backing from the American Dental Association and could erode your enamel.
- You could accidentally overuse the products – Not following the instructions to a tee can have negative consequences, including uneven application and tooth sensitivity.
- You could increase your risk of dental problems – Without supervision from your dentist, you likely won’t realize if you are actually doing more harm than good, increasing your risk of tooth decay.
The Priceless Benefits of Professional Teeth Whitening
Whether you’re struggling with minor stains or more pigmented discoloration, professional teeth whitening is the way to go. There are a few reasons for this. To start, the combination of oversight from a professional and a detailed dental exam beforehand will ensure that your oral health isn’t compromised in the process. Additionally, each treatment plan is 100% customized to you, which will minimize sensitivity. And, of course, the results are significantly more reliable and seamless, ensuring you’re left with a beautiful smile you’re proud to show off.
6 Tips for Whiter Teeth
Until your professional teeth whitening treatment, there are a few things you can do at home to prevent further discoloration, such as:
- Use a straw when drinking dark-colored beverages, like coffee and soda
- Drink plenty of water throughout the day
- Don’t smoke
- Use a soft-bristled toothbrush to clean your teeth after each meal
- Floss and rinse with mouthwash daily
- Eat plenty of light-colored foods, like yogurt and oatmeal.
Remember, whiter teeth won’t look good if they are brittle and surrounded by inflamed gums. That’s why it’s so important to visit your dentist for treatments instead of attempting to address stubborn discoloration on your own!
About the Practice
Our team at Webster Lake Dental is proud to offer reliable, safe, and convenient teeth whitening treatments thanks to take-home options. Not only do we use the highest quality ingredients, but we also customize each treatment to minimize tooth sensitivity while delivering beautiful results. If you have a question about the teeth whitening process or would like to schedule an appointment, don’t hesitate to visit our website or call (508) 943-8111.